Vol. 550 No. 1
48 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if, in the wake of concerns expressed relating to possible water shortages later in 2002, adequate water storage capacity exists on a nationwide basis to meet the public demands; his plans to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7050/02]
144 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the degree to which domestic water storage capacity is sufficient to meet current and projected demands; the projected requirement in terms of storage capacity; the number of days supply required and planned for here and in other jurisdictions in the event of an emergency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7400/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 144 together.
I am not aware of any ongoing concerns about imminent water shortages, particularly following the heavy rainfall experienced in the last few weeks. The national water study published by my Department in March 2000, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, included details of the treated water storage capacity of all public water supply schemes serving populations in excess of 5,000. The study recommended a minimum capacity of 24 hours storage. Details of currently approved proposals for major new and upgraded water supply schemes are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2000-2002, which is also available in the Oireachtas Library. Any other proposals submitted by local authorities in response to the National Water Study will be considered in the context of the next phase of the programme.
